Patras (Πάτρα), Greece

Patras, Greece
Source: https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Mediterranean_Games-_Patra_candidate_city_for_2009_2.jpg
Author: Tonyesopi


Patras is the third biggest city in Greece. It is the capital of the periphery of Western Greece and tha main city in Achaea Prefecture. The city covers 125 sq km (48 sq mi) and has a population of 223,000 including the metropolitan area (2011 estimate).

Patras is located on the northern part of Peloponnese. It is 215 km to the west of Athens, at the foothills of Mount Panachaikon. The city overlooks the Gulf of Patras.

There are two parts to Patras. Upper Patras, or Old Patras, is the charming, picturesque part of town, whereas Lower Patras is the newer part of town with a number of public squares. The two are connected by a series of roads and stairs.

View of Patras towards Agios Nikolaos Street
Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Agiou_Nikolaou_stairs.jpg
Author: Curunvir


Evidence of human settlement in the Patras area goes back to the 3rd millennium BC. The city came into being around the Post-Helladic period, around 1580-1100 BC. It was conquered by the Ottomans in 1458, and was called Baliabadra under the Ottomans. By the late 19th century, Patras had become the second biggest urban center in Greece.

Today the city has a thriving economy supported by retailing, logistics and financial services.

Going to Patras

Patras only receives chartered flights at its domestic airport, so most flights come from Athens International Airport. From Athens you can easily take a bus to Patras.

Places of Interest in Patras

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